Finding calm in the chaos- Polyvagal coach, Michael Allison

Ever feel your body slam on the brakes at the worst moment—or light up just from someone’s tone of voice? That’s your nervous system running the show. In this episode of the Crackin’ Backs Podcast, polyvagal performance coach Michael Allison (Polyvagal Clinic / The Play Zone) shows us how to find clarity in chaos and silence within the noise—teaching practical tools to shift from stress to calm, from pressure to play right when it counts.Michael breaks down Polyvagal Theory for non-experts—what it is, why it matters for peak performance, and the top myths he wants coaches and clinicians to retire (looking at you, oversimplified “fight-or-flight” narratives). Then we dive into his frameworks: The Play Zone and Autonomic Agility™—how to read your physiological state, respect its impact on performance, and shift under pressure. You’ll get a crisp 90-second routine Michael uses with athletes and performers (such as high end tennis professionals and golfers) and learn exactly what a coach should observe and what the athlete should feel when it’s working.Why listen? Michael’s methodology is endorsed by Dr. Stephen W. Porges, developer of Polyvagal Theory, and he trains coaches globally through the Polyvagal Institute—working across MLB, NBA, ATP/WTA, FIFA, NCAA, and more. If you want nervous-system regulation, vagus-nerve-informed performance, and state shifts on demand, this episode is your playbook.Learn more about Michael AllisonThe Play Zone (programs, coaching, resources): HEREPsychology Today column (“The Pressure Paradox”):Instagram (updates & clips): HEREWe are two sports chiropractors, seeking knowledge from some of the best resources in the world of health. From our perspective, health is more than just “Crackin Backs” but a deep dive into physical, mental, and nutritional well-being philosophies. Join us as we talk to some of the greatest minds and discover some of the most incredible gems you can use to maintain a higher level of health. Crackin Backs Podcast